Big names and discoveries: here are the albums that have been on repeat among our arts and entertainment journalists in the Journal in 2025; we present them to you in alphabetical order.
Euro-CountryCMAT
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CMAT website photo
Irishwoman Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson’s charming blend of pop and country serves as a backdrop for harsh reflections on her country as well as deliciously ironic observations about the pressure social media places on women (excellent Take a Sexy Picture of Me). (CB)
Funny Little FearsDamiano David
Photo provided by Sony Music
He was known as a rockstar as leader of the group Måneskin, but it is as a true popstar that Damiano David is now pursuing his solo career with his remarkable first album. Whether with Born With a Broken Heart or even The First Timethe singer shows that, whatever the musical genre, he retains the same passion that is so characteristic of him. (BL)
People WatchingSam Fender
Photo provided by Universal Music Cedric Belanger
The rock music of this 31-year-old Briton, revealed by success Seventeen Going Under in 2021, touches the heart and soul. His secret? High quality lyrics and an undeniable flair for catchy melody. The title song and Rein Me Incovered as a duet with Olivia Dean in the deluxe version of the album, are essential. (CB)
MayhemLady Gaga
Stock photo screenshot ladygaga.com
After flirting with different genres, Lady Gaga has finally returned to her pop roots with Mayhemhis best album since Born This Way, in 2011. Excerpts Die With a Smile, Disease et Abracadabra had made our mouths water, but it’s a real feast available in 14 titles that we finally discovered with pieces de resistance such Garden of Eden, Perfect Celebrity or even Vanish Into You. (BL)
I amI’m Gray
Photo page Bandcamp de Saya Gray
Despite its inclusion in the Polaris Prize shortlist and its splendid artistic qualities, the second album from this Toronto artist of Japanese origin has largely gone under the radar. It is true that this melancholy pop does not obey any popular standard, but to linger on it with an open mind is to adopt it. (CB)
That’s Showbiz BabyJade
Photo provided by Sony Music
If her star shines brightest in her native Great Britain, Jade has proven with her excellent first solo album that she deserves to shine across the entire planet. Quebec visibly recognized his talent; the singer’s show scheduled for Montreal in February was sold out just a few minutes after tickets went on sale. (BL)
LuxRosalie
Photo Noah Dillon provided by Sony Music
From reggaeton to orchestral pop, there is apparently only one step that Catalan superstar Rosalía takes with all honors on her fascinating and destabilizing fourth album, Luxa work of art with a capital A that contains songs performed in 13 different languages. (CB)
HickeyRoyel Otis
Courtesy photo
After an excellent first album, Pratts & Painvery well received in 2024, the young Australian duo rode the wave of global success by quickly launching a second album. Once again, the musicians seduce us with super catchy melodies that constantly make us nod our heads. Refreshing music for car rides. (RGM)
The Life of a ShowgirlTaylor Swift
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We were waiting for it, we got it! The new album from the queen of pop, Taylor Swift, quickly won us over with its catchy, positive songs and overflowing with love for her favorite football player turned fiancé, Travis Kelce. The songs The Fate of Ophelia, Elizabeth Taylor et Fire it up practically became instant hits; proof by the listening records that Tay Tay has shattered all. (SEN)
The ClearingWolf Alice
Courtesy photo
Fourth album for this British group and fourth nomination for the renowned Mercury Prize, the big European brother of the Polaris Prize. Even if this new album is more influenced by 1970s pop than heavy rock, and it is less brilliant than Blue Weekendwe once again fully embark on the universe led by the captivating voice of Ellie Rowsell. (RGM)
